How do oxygen levels affect lifespan?

Oxygen levels play a significant role in affecting lifespan and have various impacts on the body's cellular mechanisms. Here are some insights from experts:

1. Hypoxia and Longevity: Certain therapies, like hypoxia (low oxygen conditions), can activate longevity pathways. According to Mark Hyman, people living at high altitudes, such as those in Ecuador, benefit from "inducible hypoxia" which activates longevity switches and enhances mitochondrial function, crucial for aging 1.

2. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Conversely, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (high oxygen conditions) can have mixed effects. While it may promote stem cell generation and kill senescent cells (aging cells), experiments on mice show that excessively high oxygen levels can be harmful. Peter Attia and Vamsi Mootha noted that mice exposed to high oxygen concentrations (55%) died within days, indicating potential dangers of hyperoxygenation 2.

3. Mitochondrial Health: Both low and high oxygen levels affect mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of cells, which play a key role in aging. While moderate hypoxia can stimulate mitochondrial repair and biogenesis, extreme conditions (both low and high) can damage these critical structures and lead to serious health issues.

These insights suggest that while controlled oxygen therapies can potentially extend lifespan by enhancing cellular repair and longevity pathways, they need to be carefully balanced to avoid detrimental effects. Always consult healthcare professionals before considering such therapies.